House Bill 1645

Introduced House Bill (H)

Authored by

DIGEST

Law enforcement ombudsman. Establishes the office of the law enforcement ombudsman (ombudsman). Provides that the governor appoints the ombudsman, who must be a licensed attorney and devote full time to the duties of the office. Provides that the ombudsman receives and investigates complaints made against law enforcement officers of state and local law enforcement agencies to determine if the law enforcement agency's investigation of the law enforcement officer's actions was complete, thorough, objective, and fair. Requires the ombudsman to have access to any local or state agency records that are relevant to the complaint. Provides that if the ombudsman determinesLaw enforcement ombudsman. Establishes the office of the law enforcement ombudsman (ombudsman). Provides that the governor appoints the ombudsman, who must be a licensed attorney and devote full time to the duties of the office. Provides that the ombudsman receives and investigates complaints made against law enforcement officers of state and local law enforcement agencies to determine if the law enforcement agency's investigation of the law enforcement officer's actions was complete, thorough, objective, and fair. Requires the ombudsman to have access to any local or state agency records that are relevant to the complaint. Provides that if the ombudsman determinesthat a law enforcement agency's handling of the complaint against a law enforcement officer is insufficient, the ombudsman shall submit a written recommendation of further action to the police chief, governor (if a state agency), or municipal or county executive and legislative body. Allows an ombudsman to mediate a complaint between the complainant and the law enforcement officer or law enforcement agency if all parties consent. Makes it a Class A misdemeanor to interfere with the ombudsman or a person who files a complaint with the ombudsman.... View more